ECP code of conduct must be implemented

LAHORE - Punjab Home Minister Tariq Pervaiz has said that the government has made effective arrangements for the implementation of the code of conduct evolved by the Election Commission of Pakistan for elections and to curb terrorism. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday in Lahore, he said that all arrangements were made according to the schedule with proper planning. The home minister said that no compromise will be made on aerial firing and display of firearms to maintain conducive environment to hold free and fair elections. “Effective security plan has also been devised for curbing any untoward incident.” He said that polling stations were divided into three categories and security arrangements were made according to each category. He said that besides deputing police personnel at sensitive polling stations, CCTV cameras, video recording and other security arrangements will also be made. “Army and rangers’ personnel will also be deployed for this purpose.” The minister said that all police officers would patrol to control aerial firing and no one would be allowed to break the law. He said that for the purpose of curbing incidents of terrorism, information was being shared with other provinces. He said that though there were threats at the provincial level, no threat was received about a certain target. “Proper security is being provided to all candidates and checking of bus stands, hotels and other places is also being carried out.”He said that the caretaker set up was sparing no effort for ensuring peaceful and transparent elections.